Education & Care
How to become a Preschool Teacher
From teacher assistant: every step, how long it takes, and the credential it earns.
- Time to get there
- 1–2 years
- Typical pay
- $34k–$46k
- Starting from
- Teacher assistant
Pay is an estimate of typical US entry-level pay for this role and varies by state, employer and shift. The timeline assumes you are starting from teacher assistant and includes any licence or programme legally required, not just course length.
See preschool teacher jobs open nowThe route
Study early childhood development
Ages and stages, curriculum, and behaviour guidance.
Course that covers thisMaster Course in Early Childhood EducationUdemy · around $89.99Get the CDA
The Child Development Associate credential — the common national entry point.
CDA (Council for Professional Recognition)
Complete state licensing requirements
Health, safety and CPR, plus a background check.
Course that covers thisCPR/AED Awareness Course: Save Lives with ConfidenceUdemy · around $19.99Pediatric first aid / CPR
Work in a licensed centre
Head Start and accredited centres pay more and support further study.
- Browse jobs now
Destination
Preschool Teacher
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